petting

[pet-ing]

noun

1. the act of fondling or caressing.

   Petting or massage may help calm a stressed or hyperactive dog.

2. Informal.,  kissing, caressing, and other sexual activity between partners that does not involve sexual intercourse.

3. the present participle of pet.

Word History and Origins

Origin of petting¹

First recorded in 1870–75; pet ¹ + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

One cannot tell if a cow’s milk is safe by petting the animal.

From Salon

To prevent transmission, experts recommend owners practise good hygiene, including washing their hands after petting their dog or cat and after handling their waste.

From BBC

For dogs, it looks like a gentle petting session.

From Los Angeles Times

The opening of Galaxy’s Edge was monumental — not just replacing a petting zoo and barbecue restaurant, but reshaping Disneyland’s Rivers of America and taking over a whopping 14 acres.

From Los Angeles Times

The owner of a viral golden retriever petting experience has been banned from keeping dogs for 10 years after some of the animals died in his care.

From BBC

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